In playgrounds and parks, you’ve seen those “spinny things” that go around and around, and they actually fall into several categories. For example, there are the classic large carousel, the free-standing spinner, the bowl-like “spinning bowl” that you can sit in and spin around, and even the spinning pole that lets you hold on to the pole and spin around. Each type is different and fun for different age groups. Next, I’ll take you through what these spinning things are called, how they’re categorized, and what safety details you need to pay attention to when you play them, so that you and your kids can have fun and rest assured.
The toys you see spinning on the playground go by many different names. The most common name is “spinner,” which is more generic and applies to rotating equipment of all sizes and shapes. A more traditional name is “merry-go-round,” but this is not the large merry-go-rounds found in amusement parks, but rather the small discs on the ground that can be spun by multiple people.
People in different places call it differently. For example, in the UK, people are more accustomed to call it “roundabout”, while in the US, it is usually said “merry-go-round” or just called “spinner “. Some manufacturers like to use the word “carousel”, and although this term is generally used to refer to large carousels, it is also sometimes used to describe smaller carousels, especially those with a more elaborate design.
Overall, no matter what you call it, spinny thing, spinner, merry-go-round, or roundabout, they are all talking about the same kind of spinning toy that keeps kids entertained and physically active.
In fact, these spinny things you see in parks, schools, or backyards don’t look and play quite the same, not just the traditional spinning disk you remember. Different spinning playground equipment have their own special features that are suitable for kids of different ages, and there is a much wider variety of ways to play with them. I’m going to introduce you to a few common types so you can easily recognize them the next time you see this equipment.
This is the most classic type of spinning equipment, the kind of “big round” you were most familiar with when you were a kid, where you can seat several little ones at once and push them around or have an adult help you spin them. This type of equipment can be found in many old-fashioned parks and school playgrounds, and many families now have a small merry go round for backyard play.
This spinny thing on a playground is a single, self-contained, small spinner, usually one that the child stands on and spins by themselves using their body power. It’s small and takes up little space, and is common in both neighborhood parks and small spinning wheel playgrounds. It’s exciting to play on and works on your sense of balance.
You’ve probably seen one of those spinners that looks like half a bowl – a spinner bowl. Children can sit in it and make the bowl spin by changing their body’s center of gravity. This is a safer design, especially for younger children, and is both fun and protective.
This type of equipment is more like a pole that stands up and the child grabs onto it and spins around, kind of like a simple version of a spinning stage. This spinny thing at park is popular with kids who love a challenge that tests arm strength and is fun.
Many playgrounds are now equipped with these accessible spinners, designed for all kids, including wheelchair users. Everyone can play together, making it truly fair and inclusive for every child to have fun spinning.
Regardless of the type of spinning playground equipment, kids can have fun and be safe as long as they choose an age-appropriate style.
Don’t look at these spinning equipment that seem to be just plain fun, but they actually have a lot of unexpected benefits for your child’s development. Playing with spinny things doesn’t just make your child have fun and laugh, it also exercises the body and brain without even realizing it.
You will find that children need to keep adjusting their body position when spinning, which is actually exercising their sense of balance and body coordination. After playing more, children will be more stable and flexible when running, jumping and walking.
During spinning, a child’s vestibular system is activated, which is an important part of the brain that helps the brain perceive body position and balance. Simply put, with a well-developed vestibule, your child will perform better when learning to write, play sports, and even concentrate.
Spinning devices like merry-go-round, where multiple people play together, require kids to push and coordinate their speeds together, an interaction that teaches them to work together and make friends. You’ll also see them laughing together and bonding as they spin.
Many children are naturally adventurous, and spinning equipment gives them a sense of excitement that is “just right”. It allows them to experience the joy of speed, while challenging themselves and boosting their self-confidence in a controlled way.
So, the next time you see your child playing with these rotating devices, don’t just think it’s a joke, they are actually laughing while quietly growing up!
While spinny things can be endlessly fun for kids, safety always comes first. If you’re planning to take your kids on a spinning device or are ready to add one to your own backyard, then these are some safety tips you should definitely know.
Different types of spinning equipment are actually appropriate for different age groups. For example, spinner bowls or inclusive spinners are suitable for younger children because they are designed to be more stable and wrap around. Whereas something like a spinning pole or a single standing spinner is more suitable for slightly older children with better balance. You should always choose the right equipment for your child’s age and ability, and don’t put your child at unnecessary risk just for the sake of excitement.
Good spinning playground equipment must be made of safe and durable materials, such as high-strength steel, UV-resistant engineering plastics, and non-slip treads, so that it will not be easily damaged even after long hours of outdoor use. And the corners of the equipment should be rounded and without sharp parts to prevent children from scratching or bumping while playing.
Don’t take spinning equipment lightly because you think it’s simple; it’s always best to have an adult with you when your child is playing. You can help control the rotation speed to prevent it from spinning too fast, and you can also be the first to spot potential hazards so that your child can play with greater peace of mind.
If you’re planning to buy merry go round for backyard or other spinny thing at park equipment for yourself, be sure to look for safety certifications. Certification marks like ASTM and EN are important guarantees of product quality and safety. Don’t just look for looks or price, safety is the best part of the investment.
In fact, there really is more variety in spinny playground equipment than you might think. Whether it’s the classic merry-go-round, the safety-filled spinner bowl, or the more challenging spinning pole, each type of spinning equipment has its own unique way of playing and value. They not only bring infinite joy to children, but also help to improve their sense of balance, coordination and social skills, allowing them to grow naturally through play.
So, whether you’re adding a merry go round for backyard or choosing the right rotating equipment for your neighborhood park or school, you can start by understanding the features and safety standards of different styles. Choosing the right equipment for your child’s age and needs will keep them entertained and you more at ease.
If you’d like to learn more about rotating equipment styles, materials, or safety, keep exploring our recommended products and buying guides, and you might just find something new and fun for your child to enjoy!
Are playground spinners safe for toddlers?
Spinners are relatively safe for little ones, as long as you choose an age-appropriate small spinning device, such as a spinner bowl or inclusive spinner, and have an adult to watch over them while they play. However, things like spinning poles or standing spinners are less suitable for younger children. Remember, always pick equipment labeled with age-appropriate recommendations.
How fast should a merry-go-round spin?
In general, the speed of the merry-go-round should be kept within the range where the child can keep his/her balance without feeling dizzy. You can use “the child is able to hold himself/herself steady, has a smile on his/her face, but is not afraid” as a reference point. If it’s your own spinning device in the backyard, it’s best for adults to control the speed to ensure safety.
Can adults or older kids use playground spinners?
Of course you can! Many modern spinning playground equipment is designed to be fun for the whole family, such as inclusive spinners and reinforced merry-go-rounds, and as long as the weight capacity of the equipment allows it, older children and even adults can join in the spinning fun. However, be careful to control the speed and power of the spinning equipment, so don’t spin too hard!
What materials are best for outdoor spinners?
The ideal materials are high-strength galvanized steel, UV-resistant engineering plastics, and non-slip rubber treads. These materials are durable, rust-resistant, age-resistant, and can withstand all kinds of outdoor weather. If you plan to buy them for your backyard, remember to read the material description and whether they have safety certifications such as ASTM or EN.
How do I maintain a playground spinner at home?
Maintenance is actually quite simple. You can check your equipment every month or two for loose screws, smooth spindles, and rust or cracks. If there is rain or snow, cover it with a waterproof cover to extend the life of the equipment. Occasionally adding some lubricant to the spool will also make it spin more smoothly.
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